How to Naturally Treat Arthritis in Cats

As our cats age, their joints begin to feel the effects of a lifetime of wear and tear from activity. As a result, degenerative diseases or osteoarthritis can also take hold, making arthritis in cats a common concern. Symptoms generally associated with arthritis in pets include:

• Stiffness
• Pain
• Lameness
• Slowed movement
• A general reluctance to move around.

And even though a host of factors can lead to arthritis, such as injuries, scar tissue, genetic problems, toxicity, and deficiencies, there are many ways to treat it naturally.

The Problem with Conventional Treatments for Arthritis in Cats

Veterinarians often prescribe a variety of medications to treat arthritis, but these often aren’t well tolerated by cats. These include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, acetaminophen, and aspirin, as well as anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids. Using these medications long-term can contribute to more serious health problems later on, in addition to side effects in the short term as well.

The Many Natural Remedies to Choose From

Thankfully, you can bypass all of the harsh conventional treatments out there if you provide your cat with the right combination of natural remedies that can help the body heal when arthritis takes hold. Here are some natural options to treat your cat’s arthritis:

Devil’s claw is an herbal remedy that’s prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain. It’s often used when pets are diagnosed with arthritis, but it shouldn’t be given if your pet is diabetic.

Vitamins C and E, as well as dl-phenylalanine can have a great response for mild cases of arthritis. If the case is severe, adding sodium oxide dismutase, also known as SOD, can do the trick. This is an antioxidant that provides anti-inflammatory properties.

Boswellia (otherwise known as frankincense) and Ashwagandha are anti-inflammatory herbs that provide relief of stiffness and pain by shrinking inflamed tissues down and increasing the blood supply to these areas in order to promote healing. Originating from an Ayurvedic (or holistic) approach to treating arthritis and pain, Ashwagandha also helps generate energy while counteracting the negative effects of stress on the body.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are also popular natural remedies that support healthy joints by enhancing the cartilage between the joints. These supplements can help halt the degeneration of the cartilage and help the body rebuild it.

Pau D’Arco is an herbal remedy that’s known for relieving the pain caused by arthritis, which can promote mobility if your pet is having trouble getting around.

Turmeric is another commonly prescribed herbal remedy for animals suffering with arthritis because it has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. It’s also a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the liver and protects against myriad diseases.

Please note, all natural remedies should still only be used under a veterinary professional’s guidance. Many herbs can have alternative side effects if not dosed properly depending on your cat’s age, weight, and health conditions.

Final Thoughts

If your cat isn’t moving quite like he used to, you don’t need to resort to using strong prescription medications that can cause more harm than good. Instead, start providing a better diet, as nutrition is the foundation of health. After improving the basic diet, give the right natural supplements that will help maintain cartilage, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve mobility.

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